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Posted by Mike P on March 18, 2004 at 15:13:17:
In Reply to: Re: How do I test steam traps? posted by tom on March 08, 2004 at 18:26:46:
: : What is the best way? I used a IR thermometer and was getting temp differences from 5 deg to 20 deg. What is a "standard" temp drop. Would the temp before the trap = the temp after if blowing thru?
: : Thank you
: : Shane
:
: Best I've found is to take a screwdriver and put against the trap with the handle pressing against your ear. You can hear the trap blow and shut off if working right. Not dealing with a big temp change usually. There are a couple gizmos that will let you listen to the traps working but not really much better than the screwdriver.
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The screwdriver trick works pretty well, but I disagree that the "gizmos" don't do any better of a job. The electronic testing devices know the signature of each type of steam trap and will immediately tell you if the frequency range of the trap is correct. A number of manufacturers make one, I personally use the TLV PenCheck system due to its user-friendliness.
Mike P
1st Class Chief